I think volunteering can be rewarding but really feel that accommodation, food and health insurance should be covered by the organisation controlling the project.

Dont you understand it- they do not have the funds this is not the EU or people drivin around in Jeeps and expat villas. Jesus wept.
*Shakes head, takes Valium ,walks into wall and starts banging head.....

Whatever! I wish them luck in finding volunteers who are willing to not just work for free but to subsidise the system. I'm out.

Volunteer English teachers are needed in many developing countries...not just Nepal...and most (if not all) are happy to volunteer. Many are given a monthly stipend or allowance for their efforts...some are given free room and board...regardless of what they are given or not...they chose to become volunteers.

I haven't spent a lot of time in Nepal, but I can assure the interested reader that anyone interested in said program could just as easily approach any random school, anywhere in Nepal, and be welcomed with open arms. Not only that, I'd be surprised, big time, if the volunteer wasn't offered free meals and at least a discounted room. This NGO or whatever, is feeding on fear, at best.

And yes, check the costs if you want.. they won't be far off what we were quoted when we looked at them to hike Everest (just to base camp).

The operator fees were on top of that still. The average cost (per person) to climb Everest is close to US$30k (AFTER you get to Nepal) and more than 1/2 of that is "government fees".

$2000 is my fee.. you can pay me, I will place you in a home-stay and pay for your room and board.

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Just wanted to say that you must be confused or were misinformed about the fees for Everest. The price you quote is NOT for base camp but to climb to the TOP of Everest. I have friends who have trekked to Everest base camp more then once and I myself have trekked in Nepal. There is a permit fee but it costs about $20 for you to trek to base camp on your own. If you want to hire a guide or porter then I think that could cost you a few hundred dollars (the price includes the medical insurance for the guide/porter).

As for volunteering if I go to a country and decide I want to volunteer I would not expect the place to pay for my lodging and food. Do you expect to be reimbursed if you volunteered back home for gas or bus fare?